The United States Border Patrol has selected James F. Trainor as the new Patrol Agent in Charge (PAIC) of Calais Station. PAIC Trainor began his career with the U.S. Border Patrol on March 2, 1997, as a member of Class 332.

Paul Sylvain

Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North is conducting an investigation into the Feb. 19 death of an inmate found unresponsive in an intake cell at the Washington County Jail in Machias.

Jail Administrator Richard Rolfe said on Feb. 20 that 27-year-old Joseph Shields was arrested on a charge of disorderly conduct late morning on Feb. 19 and booked into the jail. At about 5:15 p.m., Shields, who was still in an intake cell, was found unresponsive by officers at the jail. 

Jayna Smith

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Winter sports are over for the school year and spring sports are set to begin with tryouts on March 31. Calais High School offers baseball, softball, and tennis for its students.

The next nature walk at the Moosehorn is Saturday, March 15. It takes place from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and binoculars are available to borrow. For more information, give Bill a call at 207-904-7023.

Jayna Smith

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Calais Fire-EMS responded to a structure fire at 293 River Road on Wednesday, Feb. 26, after receiving a direct report of the blaze.

Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire rolling out of the front side of the building, CFD Chief Bill Lee said. Firefighters were informed that two dogs were inside, and crews managed to locate and remove the dogs from the garage, but despite efforts to revive them, the dogs did not survive.

Jayna Smith

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Every fourth Sunday in March, the Maine Maple Producers Association invites all to celebrate Maine Maple Sunday. Sugarhouses across the state open their doors, offering visitors the chance to tour, learn about the maple syrup-making process, and enjoy one of Maine’s most cherished products. Notably, Maine ranks among the top three maple syrup producers in the nation.

Last Friday, February 28, those who were brave enough jumped into the frigid water in Pleasant Point. This year’s theme was the 70s. (Photo by Tessa Chaffey Ftorek)

Jayna Smith

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The Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) has released its 2025-2027 Work Plan, listing infrastructure improvements across Washington County. Projects include road resurfacing, bridge replacements, airport enhancements, and safety upgrades to improve transportation and connectivity.

Jayna Smith

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The American Red Cross is bringing its Home Fire Campaign to Calais on Friday, April 26, offering free smoke alarm installations for individuals and families in need. This program works to improve home safety and preparedness by ensuring that residents have working smoke alarms and a plan in case of fire.

Jayna Smith

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Last month, area fire crews responded to a devastating blaze at 319 River Road in Calais. The home, owned by Pete and Brandi Cline, was completely destroyed.

Peter and Brandi, a beloved teacher at Calais High School, their daughter, Jenna, a well-known student and friend to many, and their son, Josh, a college student, lost all their belongings and pets. 

Girl Scout Troop 2259 hosted their 3rd Annual Easter Bunny Breakfast at Pembroke Elementary School on Saturday, March 8, 2025, welcoming approximately 70 attendees. Guests enjoyed a delicious pancake breakfast, created a fun craft, and participated in an egg hunt. Each also had the opportunity for a professional photograph with the Easter Bunny, thanks to Paige Lund with Spotted Vision Photography, who donated her time to help the troop.